Curvy Kate Galaxy Review*

Hello, isn’t the weather just delightful? Or at least it was whilst I was writing this post at the weekend.

I’ve spent a good deal of time in my bikini this weekend, trying to minimise the strap lines created by working out in the garden – scrappy yoga tops aren’t conducive for an even tan and at the end of last week I had a network of criss-crossed white bits across my back.   A lot of time spent in the sun, and a lit bit of sun burn later, and I’ve rid myself of the patterned back (kinda)!

My legs are still pasty white though – they just don’t seem to tan!

In the hope that this sunshine continues, I have another swimwear review for you today.  It is the third part of my Swimwear Look Book published a few weeks ago and features the beautiful Galaxy Bandeau Bikini from Curvy Kate.

The Galaxy is a vibrant, geometric print bikini with high waisted briefs and a bandeau bra with strapping detail.

My favourite bit of this bra is the cage strapping details that can be worn in multiple ways and can be detached if you’re worried about tan lines.

The bra itself is made from a moulded cup that feels very similar to the famed Curvy Kate Strapless Luxe Bra (reviewed here).   This means it is incredibly supportive and uplifting from the band, minimising pressure from the straps.

I’m wearing the 36GG and it is a great fit, encasing and uplifting my breast tissue with the central gore sitting flush on my sternum and the back band low across my back.    I’m often a 34H in Curvy Kate so I would say the back band on this is a little firmer than their lingerie range and the cup a little more generous.

The briefs are a 18 and have the same band of vibrant print that can be found on the bikini top and a slight corseting detail to the rear.   They fit very true to size and have a little stretch to them.

I’ve paired the bra with this beautiful, vibrant wrap skirt from ASOS Curve that makes me feel like a grecian goddess.   I really am all about the beachwear this year and have been finding ways to incorporate these items into my daily wardrobe … would it be too much to wear this skirt to work?

The bikini also comes in a great plunge option (which also has a strap detailing) and can be seen on the delectable Curvy Wordy here.  The briefs come in a side tie option and there is a full swimsuit option with the same caged neckline, making this a great and versatile set with something for everyone.

It is currently priced from around £22 – 38 for the bra, depending on which site has a sale on right now, so is really a great piece for the price.

Have you read the other posts in my bikini series?

Lookbook

Curvy Kate Hi Voltage 

Elomi Cubana

C x

Summer Denim Look Book

I have fallen in love with denim this year.  My jeans collection is soaring, which is a far cry from the sole two pairs I owned this time last year, and the love has seeped into other items too; my Studio 8 denim dress (reviewed here) has been worn to death and back already.

I think the love has come from a change in my style ethos.   Previously, I have been a preened, polished dress wearer – favouring fifties style and wrap dresses to more relaxed looks.   Don’t get me wrong, I still love to dress up, but my daily style has become more relaxed.    Trainers now feature in my wardrobe whereas previously they’ve been shunned to the gym locker and never stepped foot outside of there.   Casual tee’s (many adorned with graphic slogans) also feature far more heavily in my daily wardrobe than they ever did before (and these are growing at a rate even greater than my jean collection).    Denim fits with this new ethos, a more relaxed,  comfy, casual style that takes seconds to throw together and doesn’t require an endless supply of tights!

To break up the endless parade of bikinis, I thought I’d share some of my favourite denim looks with you from the past month or two.

Mom Jeans

These jeans are from ASOS Curve and I was inspired to try them after Bethany Rutter of Arched Eyebrow raved about Mom jeans.   I realise I’m late to the party with embracing the ultra high waisted jeans that are the hybrid of relaxed skinnies and boyfriend slacks but better late than never!

I’m wearing a size 18 and they’re a perfect fit, sitting snug on my hips and loosening around mid-thigh. They’re a tiny bit gap-ey around my waist but that is my shape more than the fit of the jeans.   I have been cinching them in with a belt for other wears.

Shop the Look:

MOM Jeans  –  Bardot Top  –  Reebok Trainers  – River Island Back Pack

 

Skater Skirt

This is another little ASOS Curve number – this time a white denim skater skirt that buttons up the front and is super easy to throw on.   Again, its a size 18 and fits very well.   I’ve added the red belt as a contrast and paired with my trusted Reebok trainers for a casual look.

The skirt looks equally great with a jumper or hoody as it does with a camisole or t’shirt and is never likely to really go out of fashion.   In fact, I’m pretty sure I had a similar skirt aged 12!

Shop the Look:

ASOS Curve Skater Skirt  –  Breton Striped Tee  – Across Body Bag  –  Reebok Trainers  –  Red Belt

 

White Jeans

I have actually had these ASOS Curve Ridley jeans for years now.   They are high waisted, a little bit stretchy, and made from a denim that is thick enough not reveal your undies.

I live in white jeans through the summer months, pairing them with a bardot body for nights out, t’shirts for the day, and cute blazers for brunch with the girls.   I love the contrast of white denim with a stripe – actually, I just love a stripe but you get the gist.

These jeans really are a wardrobe staple for me and, thankfully, ASOS seem to have included them in their repeat lines.

Shop The Look:

White Skinny Jeans  –  Off Shoulder Top  –  Sandals 

 

Fluted Sleeve Jacket

I honestly never thought I’d get another denim jacket – it feels very stuck in my teenage years.  Yet this season it is all that I have craved. Perhaps I’m regressing?

Anyway, this Simply Be fluted sleeve white denim jacket is perfect for summer.   Its light weight with a slight fringing detail to the hem and a few distressed areas that add a little edge.   It is very comfy and perfect for warm summer days.

I love wearing the jacket as a double denim combo with my black skinny jeans but it also looks great with a simple, curve hugging, jersey dress and sandals.

Shop the Look:

Fluted Sleeve Jacket  –  Joanie T’Shirt  –  High Waisted Skinny Jeans  –  Reebok Classic Trainers  –  Skinny Red Scarf

How are you wearing your denim this season?  Any items I should know about?

C x

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Summer Florals with Wolf & Whistle Curve*

Wolf & Whistle Curve is a small and relatively new range of plus size fashion that has been increasingly seeping into the wish lists and social media feeds of plus size and curvy bloggers as more and more people discover the range.  And it is easy to see why as Wolf & Whistle Curve collection offers exquisite prints in classically beautiful shapes.

A few months ago I reviewed their beautiful Red Crochet Panel dress and immediately fell in love with the fit, design and quality of the dress.  So when they asked if I would like to review one of their new designs I jumped at the chance.

I chose the Alissa Pressed Flower Cami Dress* as fell instantly in love with the classic camisole and full skirt combination with a delicate yet vibrant floral print.

As with the Crochet dress, the fit of this design is excellent.  I’m wearing an 18 and it fits beautifully across the bust without flattening or constraining my H cup breasts.   The waist band sucks in nicely at the waist and the skirt flows out in a classic 50’s full skirt.

The quality is also noteworthy, with double seemed edges and slightly padded straps to stop the delicate camisole from digging into your shoulders.

The straps are also adjustable meaning you can alter the sweep of the neckline to be more revealing or a little more covered depending on your mood.

The dress is made from a soft, silky scuba material which means the fabric holds it shape beautifully and is thick enough to prevent transparency whilst remaining cool enough to wear through the hot summer months.

This will definitely be coming with me on beach holidays later in the year.

I also think it is a perfect dress for summer weddings.   I’ve styled it here for floating around my village on a hot summers day, which is exactly what I was doing: eating ice lollies outside my village shop before popping to the beer garden for a G&T in the sunshine – I love lazy days like this.   However, throw on a cropped blazer and a pair of heels and this is perfect formal dress for a wedding.

The floral print has neon flashes and the overall material is creamy enough to not be mistaken for the bride (you know, just in case the groom and everyone there aren’t really sure which girl is the bride).

Wolf & Whistle also have a tea dress made in this print if you prefer a little more coverage.   I have to admit, I would kind of like both to be hanging in my wardrobe.

The dress is priced at £70 so it isn’t a budget option.   However, it is classic enough to see you through year after year of wear and the quality of the design makes me believe it will last you year after year.    I believe it is definitely worth the investment.

Have you tried any of the Wolf & Whistle Curve range yet?  I’d love to know if you’ve found the quality as good as I have.

C x

 

The dress featured in this article has been gifted for the purpose of review.   All thoughts and opinions remain my own.

8 Bags to See You Through Summer

Traditionally, I’ve not really been a bag person.   I’ve bought maybe two bags in the past year and still use the same work bag from 5 years.   I think this is about to change though, as I’m seeing more and more bags that I really want in my wardrobe.   Perhaps I need to organise an entire bag shelf with multiple options – that would be a dream really.

Yes, this summer may well be a summer of bags but, conscious of my lowly bank balance, I’ve decided to stick to a list of essential bags that I can really see myself using (not the type that will be used one then forgotten all about).   These are my top eight:

1. Shopper Bag

For throwing in all those purchases when out and about – cause no-one wants to pay 5p for a bag that will choke dolphins!

Oasis Shopper Bag

2. The Clutch

For cocktails with the girls: I like mine just big enough for my phone, my lipstick, and my purse.  I’ve always preferred embellished clutches!

Pieces Beaded Clutch Bag

3. The Backpack

I bought my first backpack earlier this year and have been completely in love with it – especially when travelling as it stops a lot of the back pain I experience when trying to lug around a water bottle, camera, sunscreen and phone.

Mango Backpack

4. The Beach Bag

For sunscreen, my kindle and a towel.   I’m not actually flying to warmer climates for a beach holiday until the winter months but I’m going to be investing in a beach bag whilst there is a wide selection to choose from.   I tend to be drawn to geometric or aztec prints although this often clashes with my monochrome bikinis!

Accessorize Beach Bag

5. A Cross Body Bag

Cross Body Bags have long been my go-to for days out.  They’re easy to throw on, don’t get in the way of my crutch, and give super easy access to your phone and wallet.

River Island Cross Body Bag

6. Cabin Bag

For city, work and beach breaks alike, a cabin bag is always needed for trips abroad. Even if I have checked luggage, I often take one of these along so that I have a change of clothes if anything untoward happens with my main case.

it Luggage Fashionist Cabin Bag

7. The Briefcase Bag

For business meetings and laptop carrying – the briefcase bag is one of my most used bags.  I particularly like the way they hold everything upright so I don’t spend hours routing around for my kindle which has slipped beneath all by over junk when on a long train journey.

River Island Blue Panel Tote Bag

8. Gym Bag

Mine is getting a bit battered from over use.   They’re great for weekends away too as normally have a bit extra space to fill that your usual oversized totes!

Ban.Do Gym Bag

Any bags you can’t live without?

C x

40 Days, 40 Outfits: Part Two

Regularly readers, and those following me on Instagram, will know that I’ve been participating in a little challenge: 40 Days, 40 Outfits.  The premise is to spend 40 days experimenting with your wardrobe to create 40 unique outfits from items you already own.   The challenge includes a spending ban, so you’re strictly not allowed to buy new items throughout the challenge.

I learnt several things during the challenge, the first being that I have a far larger wardrobe than I realised.   Second, I have go-to favourites that I wear time and time again.  Mini skirts and white blouses are definitely a preferred look of mine as are jeans with a smart blazer.

I also wear gym gear, or PJs, far more than I ever realised.   In fact, if I’m not in work, I’m likely to be in gym gear – it is just so comfy!

My jeans get a lot more wear then I ever realised … and I probably could do with a few more pairs as I seem to be continually waiting for them to be washed and ready to wear again.

And sometimes, I dress fancy for no reason …

Ultimately, I need to use my wardrobe far more and shop less are there are so many items in my wardrobe that didn’t even get linked into this challenge.

As a fashion blogger, I get wrapped up in the idea that everything I feature has to be shiny and new so that you guys can buy or replicate my style.   But this isn’t me … I don’t have an unlimited bank balance, and I do like wearing the same things – I have wardrobe staples, and wardrobe treasures (perhaps I should do a post on those soon) that I like to mix and match to create new takes on my tried and tested looks.   This, to me, is why I fell in love with fashion and getting dressed every morning and this challenge has really bought me back to that.

How about you? Have you enjoyed seeing my outfits even though you can’t necessarily buy the items I feature?   Would you like to see more posts like this? Potentially a monthly round up of what I’ve been wearing?   I’d really love to hear your thoughts.

C x

8 Plus Size Slogan T-Shirts

I’m loving the simply life at the moment; outside of work I’m living in jeans and t-shirt combinations when having to leave the house.  In the house, leggings and tees are my go-to.

I’m more relaxed in myself than I have been the past few years, my career is going well, my body confidence is swelling, and I feel I’ve settled into my own slightly weird, slightly quirky personality.   I always use to apologise about myself – now I just don’t give a damn.

I think this relaxation in mind set has led to a relaxation in my style.   I’m more willing to experiment and try new things, but I’m also more likely to just throw on something that I’m comfortable in.   T-shirts are just that – soft cotton against my skin feels great and if it has a graphic print or a quirky slogan then I’m even happier.

These are just some I’m craving right now; I think they’d look great in New York next month, paired with skinny jeans, a jacket and some red lippy for exploring cocktail bars and quirky restaurants (not to forget The Met).

1. River Island Plus ‘American Tour’

2. Joanie Clothing ‘Baguette About It’

3. Boohoo ‘Peace’

4. Joanie Clothing ‘Brunch Club’

5. Flox Creative ‘I am not a unicorn’

6. Forever 21 ‘Pretty Mess’

7. Simply Be ‘Sisters Before Misters’

8. New Look ‘She Can and She Will’

Do you have a thing for slogans?   Which are your favourite?

C x

Spring/Summer Shoes

I’ve been brave this year and ditched the tights already – okay, it because I put my hands straight through them within half an hour of entering work on Thursday, but still – I’ve gone bare legged and I’m not looking back.

Bare legs means a need for new shoes – and yes, I really mean need as I got rid of many impractical heels last year and am now down to only one pair of heels for the summer.    I need a little support in my shoes with my crampy leg (my new word for my bad leg which is angry and always getting cramp) and so ankle straps are my friend.   I’m also wearing flats more, with trainers becoming a wardrobe staple for the first time since I was about 14 and living in converse, so I’ve thrown some summer flats in amongst all the pretty heels!

1. New Look Yellow Satin Block Heels

2. New Look Wide Fit Grey Suedette Heels

3. River Island Floral Wide Fit Platforms

4. Clarks Kendra Ella 

5. Lost Ink Wide Fit Heels

6. New Look Gold Contrast Trainers

7. Sole Dive Laser Cut Shoe Boots

8. ASOS Jeanie Wide Fit Espadrilles

And top of my list?   Definitely the first pair!

C x

40 Days, 40 Outfits: Part One

I’m on a bit of spending break.   Well, no – that’s not quite right.   I’m on a clothes spending break – I have wardrobes literally bursting yet have become a bit reliant on either wearing the exact same thing or splashing out on new purchases that I wear once and then don’t look at for weeks.    I wanted to do something about this, so I decided to join the 40 Days, 40 Outfits challenge.

“40days40outfits is a fun and mindful challenge to create 40 outfits & pictures in 40 days. No shopping! Join and find your authentic and true self.”

I had some misgivings: would I have enough clothes to go the distance?  Daft question.  Would I be able to make a whole 40 days without buying something new?  So far so good.   Would I have the time and the creativity to find something new to wear every day?

Well, I’m currently more than halfway through and loving every day.  It’s given my wardrobe a new life, I’m enjoying picking out new outfits to wear every day and finding new ways to express my given mood.   I’m also feeling more authentic over on my social media accounts like Instagram.  Posting what I’m wearing every day means that I’m showing all sides of myself – from the workplace, to days out exploring, to slowing in the house when working from home.   It’s all out there for all to see and it’s more authentically me than the parade of new clothes you normally see on my blog.

I’m more than halfway through the challenge and thought I’d share with you the outfits I’ve worn so far.   Wherever possible I have linked the item but please remember that not all items worn are new and, as such, not all can be linked!

Enjoy x

Left: Black Skinny Jeans; Reebok Trainers; Faux Leather Jacket

Right: Nicky Rockets T-Shirt

Right: Pom Pom Camisole; Black Skinny Jeans; Reebok Trainers

Left: Stripped Dress

Right: White Skinny Jeans; Navy Top

Left: Black Skinny Jeans

Right: Pink Top

Top Right: Black Skinny Jeans; Faux Leather Jacket

Bottom: White Skinny Jeans; Reebok Trainers

Left: Shirt Dress

Right: Bomber Jacket; Reebok Trainers

Oh, and don’t forget to check back at the end of the challenge for part 2!

C x

Seville City Break Wardrobe*

Apologies to all who follow me on Instagram and have been spammed with my stories of Seville.   I honestly had such a wonderful time there and simply couldn’t wait to share it with the world!   I’m working on a guide to the city and will be sure to publish that as soon as I’ve sorted through the hundreds of photos (I took in excess of 600).   For now, I thought I’d share with you my city break wardrobe!

I spoke last week about my packing tips and what I was taking – you can read the post here.   Yet, despite the best laid plans, my wardrobe didn’t go entirely to plan.   I spilt toothpaste down my jeans in the morning and had to switch them for a less summery pair.   My jumper got a little hot and sweaty going through customs and couldn’t be worn again (without gassing my neighbours) – thankfully, it was warm enough to not be needed.   And I ended up not needing two of my tops – although best to have packed them in case of coffee or further toothpaste disasters.

This is what I ended up wearing …

Travelling Out 

I had meant to wear these delightful Simply Be distressed jeans, but the aforementioned toothpaste incident meant I couldn’t wear them on the flight without looking like I’d been up to something rather dodgy (the place the toothpaste dropped was really quite awkward).   Thankfully, my New Look jeans were freshly washed and quick to throw on. I paired them with my Next Camisole and a slouchy Elvi jumper (not pictured).   I also layered up in my Joanna Hope Boucle Jacket kindly gifted to me by Simply Be for the holiday.

I always layer when travelling, I get hot and sticky in the airport (especially with the hassle of customs) and then freezing on the flight.   I was also weary of the mass of dry air that often hits as soon as you step off a plane – no one wants to arrive at their hotel a hot sticky mess (although I have done this many a time).

Pictured Outfit Details

Next Camisole

New Look High Waisted Jeans

Scarf (bought from a market in Mauritius)

Reebok Classics in Cream Leather

Dinner Dates (1)

I tried to pack items that could be worn out one night for dinner and then out again the next day for exploring – I’m all for maximising my wardrobe when away!

This beautiful navy and white stripped dress from Simply Be* is perfect for this.   For dinner, I paired it with Clarks Brogues and my Joanna Hope jacket*, also from Simply Be but now sold out.  It is available from other retailers though.

The great thing about a jersey dress is that it doesn’t crease.   It also dries quickly if you do need to give it a quick wash between wears.   I’m hoping Simply Be will make this in other colours/patterns as I really love it!

Pictured Outfit Details  

Simply Be Bodycon Dress*

Joanna Hope Boucle Jacket*

Clarks Brogues (similar here)

River island Back Pack (similar here) 

Exploring Alcazar 

The weather in Seville was rather brilliant, averaging around 26 degrees in the afternoon but the mornings and evenings were chilly and my jacket was needed.   The great thing about Seville is that it’s built for heat.   The many orange trees offer shade on every street and there was a slight breeze whilst we were there.   I would imagine the heat to be insufferable later in the season though.

The light weight boat neck tee’s from Simply Be* really where my go to for this trip – light weight cotton means you don’t get too hot whilst wandering around the parks, gardens and palaces but the coverage prevents any burning or needing to top up continually with sun cream.   I paired this navy blue one with my trusted white skinny jeans from ASOS (I’ve had them 3 years now and they still look like new).

My Reebok Classics were amazing –  I averaged around 20,000 steps a day in Seville and they supported my feet every step of the way.   I have no blisters (which is almost unheard of for me) and my feet felt cushioned and not to weary after long days of exploring.   I will be buying another pair as they come in so many different colour options.

Pictured Outfit Details

Simply Be Boat Neck (part of a two pack)*

ASOS White Skinny Jeans

Reebok Classics 

River Island Backpack (sold out in grey – similar here)

Dinner Dates (2) – Plaza De Espana

Evening walks to the Plaza de Espana before more tapas and Sangria (there was a lot of that) called for a beautiful skirt.   This metallic Elvi skirt looks simply stunning with the Simply Be Boat neck.  I actually wore the skirt the following night too with the striped version of the top – sadly, I was too busy guzzling Sangria and tucking into the most amazing Tapas that I complete forgot to take a picture! I’m a bad blogger.

I’m wearing Tortz underneath that really saved my thighs from chub rub on this trip – the day after this was taken, they protected me whilst climbing 34 flights of stairs in my bodycon dress.

Pictured Outfit Details

Elvi Metallic Pleated Skirt

Simply Be Boat Neck Top*

Clarks Brogues (similar here)

Parque Maria Luisa 

The final day of exploring called for re-wearing the bodycon dress worn on my first evening.   It is lightweight and the pattern means that sneaky sweat marks don’t show up – did I mention climbing 34 flights in 26 degree heat?

I love how versatile this dress is – easy to dress up or down with the change of a pair of shoes.  I felt great prancing about the beautiful Parque Maria Luisa in this dress.

I also had a backpack that came every where with me.   It’s from River Island and is my new obsession.   It’s sadly sold out in this colour but available in similar styles/colour options.   It was great for carrying around my camera, water bottle, purse, and scarf all day without twisting or straining my back.

Pictured Outfit Details

Simply Be Bodycon Dress*

Reebok Classics 

Scarf (bought in Mauritius)

Travelling Home 

Leaving early the next morning, I slipped back into a fresh boat neck top and my travel jeans for a comfy flight home.   I always wear jeans for short haul – anything over 6 hours and I much prefer comfy leggings though! Perhaps I’ll have to write some tips for travelling long haul at a later date!

Pictured Outfit Details

Simply Be Boat Neck Top*

New Look High Waisted Jeans

Reebok Classics 

Scarf (bought in Mauritius)

Apologies for the very long post and congratulations if you made it this far.   Like I said, check back next week to hear all about the sights and wonders of the beautiful Seville.

 

* Any of the items in this marked with a * have been gifted by Simply Be for the purpose of this post.   All items were chosen by me and have been accurately reviewed according to my own findings.

Feeling’ Folksy – Plus Size Bohemian Vibes

The sun is shining as I write this, I’m newly returned from Seville and already planning my next trip to Marrakech and then my big holiday to Cuba at the end of the year.  All the holiday planning, and the sun kissed and freckled (cause there’s no tan yet) feelings are making me feel very relaxed, contented, and rather bohemian.

This has definitely been coming through in the items I’m lusting after right now: think tassels, embroidery, and crochet in flowing shapes and a disregard for structure.

These are some of my favourites. 

1. Joe Browns Chao Pesco Dress

2. RI Plus Embroidered Top

3. Boohoo Column Maxi Dress

4. ASOS Tassel Back Top

5. Alice & You Swing Dress

6. River Island Floral Beach Kimono

7. Marks & Spencer Long Sleeve Kimono Blouse

8. Elvi Lace Dress

Don’t forget to check back later in the week for my Seville posts!  They’re gonna be full of beautiful pictures!   If you’re bored, you can always take a look at what I packed!

C x